Tourism Dept requests ECI to relax liquor restrictions this weekend

18 Apr 201905:29am IST

18 Apr 201905:29am IST

Report byTeam Herald

PANJIM: The Department of Tourism has approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking relaxation on restriction imposed for sale and serving of liquor beyond 11 pm in view of Lok Sabha elections.

The letter to ECI through the Office of the Chief Election Officer (CEO), Goa comes after several hoteliers approached the department seeking relief from the ECI.

The representation stressed on the need for relaxation in timings as the tourism season is currently at its peak and is expecting a further surge for the weekend festivities.

Earlier this week, Tourism Director Sanjiv Gadkar along with a delegation of hoteliers met CEO Goa where this issue causing difficulties to the hotel industry (bars/restaurants) was discussed and deliberated upon. The department has stated that “the office of the CEO Goa heard the issues raised and assured to take up the matter with the ECI. We are expecting a positive response shortly.”

“Since it is a long weekend coinciding with the celebration of one of biggest religious festival, it is bound that alcohol along with food will be in demand. Relaxation in timing will provide a major relief to not only the Christian community but also tourism stakeholders,” a tourism official said.

In another development, District Magistrate, North Goa has issued prohibitory orders on the voting day April 23 from 6 am to 7 pm

As per the order, in urban areas, all establishments within 100 mts of polling stations and in villages, within 200 mtrs will have to remain closed on April 23 from 6 am to 7 pm